COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — The city’s stormwater program is getting a facelift, and the mayor says it’s long overdue.

The city has released a new stormwater implementation plan that addresses a looming problem. Major John Suthers says funding was taken away in 2009, and needed improvements were never addressed.

The city took action after it was audited by the EPA and found not to be in compliance with federal guidelines.

Suthers said the city is planning 71 projects over the next 20 years, including eight to be completed by this first year.

“The bottom line is we’re not only legally required to do this, it’s the right thing to do from public health, safety, and welfare,” Suthers said. “A lot of people who don’t live along streams, live along drainage systems, don’t appreciate the full nature or extent of the problems, but the fact of the matter is they are significant.”

The city will add 37 more employees for the program, which will have a $20 million annual budget.